Voluntary sector bosses have welcomed the publication of the Charities Bill saying it gives the sector greater freedom.

Devolving greater powers to charities, the bill gives the Charity Commission a more clearly defined role.

Home Office minister Fiona MacTaggart, who has published the bill, says it will provide greater freedom for voluntary groups to operate within a more flexible legal framework enabling them respond to changes in society.

Ministers also claim it supports greater choice by establishing a new structure for charities - the Charitable Incorporated Organisation which will simplify administration and reduce risk for charities which want to be companies.